The MAMI Mumbai Film Festival 2024 recently hosted a masterclass that left a lasting impact on cinema enthusiasts and aspiring actors alike. The venerable Shabana Azmi, celebrated for her remarkable five-decade-spanning career in Indian cinema, conducted the session with celebrated actress Vidya Balan. Their dialogue was a compelling exploration of Azmi’s extraordinary journey, encompassing her collaborations with legendary filmmakers and her profound insights into the art of acting.
Shabana Azmi’s illustrious career stands as a testament to her versatile talent and dedication to the film industry. Over the years, she has worked alongside some of the most influential directors, contributing significantly to the evolution of Indian cinema. During the masterclass, Azmi shared reflections on her work with iconic visionaries such as Shyam Benegal, Mahesh Bhatt, Satyajit Ray, and Deepa Mehta. “Working with Shyam Benegal was a turning point in my career. His scripts were rich in substance, and he allowed room for creative expression. It was more than just acting; it was living the character,” she elaborated, highlighting her growth under his direction.
One particularly revealing anecdote came from her collaboration with Mahesh Bhatt. Azmi recounted how a lack of concrete script did not deter them. “For one of the movies, we didn’t have a script… I would wear my own clothes and turn up on the sets. But it was like he pressed a button, and I would start,” Azmi noted, illustrating the intuitive understanding and chemistry she shared with Bhatt.
The session also unearthed insights into filming the emotive song “Tum Itna Kyun Muskura Rahe Ho” for the movie Arth. “On the third day, I froze. Just before the clap, Mahesh said, ‘Look exposed.’ That was the best instruction anyone could have given me,” Azmi recalled. This simple, yet profound direction was instrumental in helping her deliver one of the film’s most poignant scenes.
.
Azmi’s dialogue extended to her experiences in theatre, where the demands are uniquely challenging compared to film. Describing the thrill and fear of performing live, Azmi confessed, “The butterflies in my stomach become as large as elephants. But once the first dialogue is set, a certain ease follows.” Her appreciation for both theatre and film was evident as she highlighted the importance of versatility. “Actors like Ralph Fiennes exhibit a perfect balance between the two mediums. It’s a blend that enriches an actor’s capability,” she added.
Joining Azmi in this enriching discussion, Vidya Balan contributed her observations on navigating the industry as an untrained actor. Emphasizing reliance on directors, she expressed, “For someone like me who hasn’t had formal training, the director’s guidance is crucial.” Balan also revealed her aspirations to delve into comedy, citing Sridevi’s work in Mr. India as a benchmark for effective physical humor by a female actor.
The masterclass at MAMI was not just a celebration of Azmi’s cinematic journey but also a recognition of her indelible legacy. The festival honored Azmi with the Excellence in Cinema Award, a fitting tribute to her contributions that have transcended generations. This prestigious award was presented during the festival’s opening ceremony, underscoring the impact she has had on the industry.
Complementing the masterclass, a special screening of the much-acclaimed movie Arth was organized as part of the festival’s lineup. Scheduled for October 20, this screening not only reminisced a pivotal film in Azmi’s career but also offered audiences a glimpse into the artistry that defines her work.
In essence, the masterclass provided an invaluable opportunity for participants to understand the nuances of acting through the eyes of a stalwart. Shabana Azmi’s stories shed light on not just the glamorous facets of the film industry but also the dedication and resilience required to thrive. As attendees left, they carried with them newfound enthusiasm and respect for the craft of acting, inspired by the wisdom shared by two of the industry’s most esteemed figures.
Published – October 20, 2024 11:58 am IST
film festival
/
World cinema
/
Hindi cinema
